Short Wave

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent, discusses the transition of research chimpanzees to Chimp Haven following the NIH's decision to end invasive studies in 2015. She shares the touching reunion of chimps Huey and Pancake with their caregiver after 20 years apart, illuminating the emotional aspects of their new lives. Nell also addresses the ethical implications surrounding chimpanzee research and the challenges of relocating these animals, highlighting the need for careful planning in their retirement.

Cylita Guy is an urban ecologist and the author of "Chasing Bats and Tracking Rats," focusing on wildlife in cities. She shares humorous anecdotes, like her encounter with a police officer while conducting bat research. Cylita discusses the critical roles bats play in pest control and pollination. The conversation highlights the intersection of race in science and the need for equitable access to nature in diverse communities. She emphasizes community engagement to enhance urban ecosystems and the quality of life in cities.

Rebecca Hersher, NPR's climate correspondent, dives into a critical Baltimore lawsuit against major oil and gas companies, which seeks to hold them accountable for local climate change costs. The Fourth Circuit Court is deciding if the case should be tried in state or federal court, with implications for consumer protection laws. Hersher discusses how the outcome could set a precedent for over 20 similar lawsuits across the nation. This courtroom showdown could redefine responsibility for climate change funding.

Alison Aubrey, NPR's health correspondent, discusses the current dynamics of COVID-19, emphasizing that while cases are falling, hospitalizations and fatalities remain high. She highlights the critical need for booster shots, noting that only half of vaccinated Americans have taken them. Experts express cautious optimism about the coming months, urging continued vigilance and support for vulnerable populations. The conversation also touches on the reliability of rapid tests and the importance of adhering to isolation guidelines post-positive tests.

Glenn Weldon, host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, and Ingu Kang, TV critic at The Washington Post, dive into the HBO Max miniseries Station Eleven, adapted from Emily St. John Mandel's novel. They explore its haunting themes of pandemics and resilience, drawing eerie parallels to modern life. The discussion highlights character transformations, the interplay of community and trauma, and the balance of humor and depth in storytelling. They also examine how art and theater serve as vital elements in shaping the narrative.

Jason Beaubien, NPR's global health correspondent, shares insights into the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the contrasting strategies nations are employing against the Omicron surge, highlighting China's stringent measures versus more relaxed approaches in other regions. The conversation dives deep into global vaccination disparities, especially in conflict zones like Yemen, stressing the urgent need for equitable access. Beaubien also sheds light on the World Health Organization's efforts and the complexities of vaccine distribution in an ever-evolving crisis.

Geoff Brumfield, NPR science correspondent, dives into the captivating search for extraterrestrial life. He discusses a mysterious radio signal detected from Proxima Centauri that sparked excitement among scientists. The conversation covers the mixed emotions of thrill and fear in the hunt for alien communication. Brumfield also highlights the collaborative efforts in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence and the ongoing challenges of distinguishing cosmic signals from Earthly noise. Join him in exploring the quest for our cosmic neighbors!

Nathan Rott, NPR's environmental and American West correspondent, dives into the impact of a severe megadrought on Lake Powell. The discussion reveals the tension between reviving a lost canyon versus maintaining a crucial reservoir. Rott shares eye-opening insights on the ecological changes and the historical significance of the Glen Canyon Dam. With tourism at stake, he highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions in water management while portraying the stark reality of climate change in the region.

Experts discuss the potential transition of COVID-19 to an endemic state, which could lead to fewer disruptions in daily life. There are regional disparities in infection rates, with some areas seeing improvement while others face ongoing challenges. Despite a rise in deaths, there's cautious optimism about vaccine efficacy and new treatments. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of robust testing strategies and ongoing vaccine trials for young children to ensure community immunity.

Jon Hamilton, an NPR science correspondent, dives into a groundbreaking plan to treat Parkinson's disease through the placebo effect. He shares captivating stories, including the surprising ways monkeys respond to joy and stimuli. Hamilton discusses the curious concept of paradoxical kinesia, where strong emotions can trigger enhanced movement, and highlights how this emotional connection may pave the way for novel treatments. The episode explores the intersection of joy, movement, and cutting-edge research, sparking hope for those affected by Parkinson's.